It's that time of year; when we get dressed up and enjoy jazzy cocktails with friends, family and colleagues at countless holiday parties. This year's circuit kicked off for me with a pop-up shop hosted by Ecohabitude and Green Drinks NYC. Intimate yet buzzing, this event was a great start to the holiday season!

Ecohabitude, an online marketplace which brings ethical and sustainable products to a wide consumer audience, got the atmosphere just right with plenty of organic cocktails, fashion-ey activities and, of course, a few great vendors. While shopping online is always easy and often the best way to find exactly what you are looking for, getting the chance to see an item in person (and better yet, to meet the maker) can give a new appreciation for something that may have been overlooked on-screen. Personally, I loved seeing Ecohabitude's stock of Myrrhia dresses in person as well as meeting Judi of Judi Powers Jewelry - she was incredibly enthusiastic about being a part of the marketplace and is clearly passionate about her designs! I even spied some jewelry by Ways of Change and sniffed some heavenly scents by Objects With Purpose.

So, while you're gearing up for your holiday parties and doing some stocking stuffer shopping, head over to Ecohabitude and check out their extensive marketplace! This comprehensive space carries everything from clothing and accessories to beauty and home goods. Each item available on Ecohabitude is designed and made with ethical or sustainable practices, and often both are considered.

Ways of Change, Round About Botanicals and more shiny wares on display.

Alden Wicker of EcoCult getting her nails done at the D.I.D. manicure station.

Judi Powers showing off her brushed metal jewelry.

Folks having fun at the party!

Oh! I almost forgot my favorite part of the event; the booze. When a fruity, bubbling cocktail crafted from organic Prairie Vodka and garnished with a Kitchen Imp's Organic Vanilla Sugar rim is offered to me, I take it with a smile. Below is the recipe for this refreshing drink!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 oz Prairie Organic Vodka

4 blackberries

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp organic simple syrup

2 oz soda water

fresh mint

1 small plate of Kitchen Imp's Organic Vanilla Sugar

Directions:

Wet rim of an empty glass, place upside-down on plate of sugar. Add ice cubes to glass.

Add blackberries and a few mint leaves, muddle slightly with a spoon.

Add remaining ingredients and serve with a sprig of mint on top. Enjoy!